It’s not uncommon to see high temps around 110 degrees this time of year, but Mother Nature will outdo herself this week. 

The National Weather Service issued an extreme heat warning in effect Thursday through Monday. 

“There’s going to be a hot spell here, even if you’re acclimated to the desert heat,” said NWS meteorologist Matt Salerno. 

Thursday will likely reach a high of 110 degrees with the rest of the week climbing steadily to a high of116 degrees on Saturday. 

Previous record temperatures have been 115 degrees on July 23, 2018, 116 on July 24, 2014, and two back-to-back record highs on July 25 and 26, 2023 of 119 and 118 degrees, respectively. 

Salerno advised locals to be extra cautious and to venture outside only in the early morning or after sunset to minimize heat impact. 

“Make sure you stay hydrated, drink plenty of electrolytes, wear cool clothing, and check on others,” Salerno said. 

The Pinal County Coalition to End Homelessness lists three cooling centers in and around Maricopa: the Maricopa Library and Cultural Center, La Frontera of Arizona and Thunderbird Fire District. Visit the PCCEH website for details.